Bisphosphonates have to be taken on an empty stomach and the individual is advised to remain upright and avoid food immediately after taking the tablet.

Convenience

Some argue that other preparations, such as daily strontium ranelate, which increases the formation of healthy new bone while simultaneously decreasing bone destruction, are more convenient to take.

They argue that it might be easier to forget to take a monthly tablet.

However, GSK believes its new once-monthly preparation will be more convenient for patients.

Dr Louise Dolan, consultant rheumatologist at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in London, said: "A once a month treatment option should encourage women to take their treatment regularly, reducing the risk of fracture and the devastating impact this can have on their lives.

"I'm sure patients will appreciate fewer tablets."

A spokeswoman for the National Osteoporosis Society said: "This will offer more choice to people about when to take their tablets, enabling them to choose a monthly tablet rather than a daily or weekly tablet, which may fit into their lives better."

Dr Richard Keen of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London said people on osteoporosis treatment should not overlook the importance of ensuring that they were also getting enough vitamin D, which is important for bone health.